Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Special
permission secured for access to the Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus.

To
ancient peoples, winter solstice meant feasting and celebrating the end of the
old cycle, and the beginning of the new one. That is probably why a
subterranean temple to the god Mithras, who was supposed to guarantee the
seasonal cycle, was built close to Rome's largest circus, the Circus Maximus.
The Mithraeum, one of the largest of its kind found so far in Rome, was
discovered lying 14 metres beneath a pasta factory which had been converted
into a warehouse for Rome's Opera house. It still holds some of the original
sculptures which helped define the beliefs and ceremonies which took place
there in the 3rd century AD.

Following
out visit of the Mithreum, we will walk over to the Celian Hill to inspect the
Case Romane del Celio located under the Medieval church of San Pietro e Paolo.
It is a wonderfully preserved corner of ancient Rome.

When:
Saturday, December 14, 2013Time: 10
a.m. The walk lasts about two and a half hours, starting promptly at 10. Those
who would like to have a coffee beforehand may start gathering at 9:30 at a
coffee bar that will be specified in the confirmation email.Meeting
Point: Circo Massimo area. The exact meeting point will be sent out to
registered participants.Cost:
€10 for CCR members, €15 for non-members. Please note: 4 euro entrance to
the Mitreum, and a 6 euro entrance to the Case Romane.RSVP
required by Wednesday, December 12, 2013 ATTN Linda at canadarome@gmail.com or
Olivia at oliviaercoli1@gmail.com. You are financially responsible for your
reservation.NOTE:
Please bring correct change, familiarize yourself with the meeting place ahead
of time and make sure you are ready to depart promptly.